Newly formed Hurricane Michael is heading for the U.S., with the Florida Panhandle directly in its crosshairs.

The massive Category 1 storm could potentially approach major hurricane strength — that is, a Category 3 or greater — later this week. Though still far off, the storm is forecast to slam Florida, bringing strong winds and rains.

"This storm will be life-threatening and extremely dangerous," Gov. Rick Scott said Sunday.

A state of emergency has been declared in dozens of counties as the system nears, with life-threatening flash flooding possible thanks to the anticipated heavy rainfall.

"Everybody's got to get ready," Scott added. "Don't take a chance. We're going to get storm surge. We have wind. We have a chance of flooding. We have a significant chance of tornadoes."

Tropical force winds are extending 175 miles outward from the center of the storm.